To be or not to be... Paul debates with himself about the pros and cons of being rescued from prison and death in verses 19-26. He expresses a hope that I share with him: that should the choice come down to my life or allegiance to Christ, that I will have the courage to offer my life - and more that Christ would be glorified whether through my death or my life. (verse 20)
- Have you ever asked yourself that question - given an ultimatum, would you choose Christ or your life?
We all hope our answer would be the brave one, but honestly, in my own strength I fear failure. Thankfully, we won't be alone, depending on our own strength. 1 Peter 4:16 tells us that suffering we endure because of Christ is a 'blessing' because the Spirit of God rests on us. Paul understood this clearly. Read what he writes in verse 21.
- What do you look forward to most when you reach heaven?
- What is your greatest ambition while here on earth?
Paul loved the Philippians and wanted to continue his work with them and the other churches he'd begun around the Mediterranean. He wanted to 'love on' Jesus with them. He would have put off his own pleasure of being face to face with Jesus in order to help their faith develop.
- Who in your family or circle of friends do you love enough to share Jesus with them?
In heaven, I look most forward to unfettered intimacy with God - a communion that isn't hindered by the weight and worries of the world. I know we can and do work toward this in our earthly lives, but I imagine that the depth and freedom with which that relationship will blossom in heaven will be like nothing we can attain here.
ReplyDeleteMy usual answer to my life's ambition is that I want to matter, but if I look more closely - and honestly - at my own heart, it might be more that I want my life to be vibrant, un-boring. God designed us with uniqueness and giftedness. I think when we live for Christ's sake (follow our real heart), unhindered by fear that turns our focuses to survival and acceptance, God electrifies our lives, they become naturally vibrant and exhilarating, utilizing our uniqueness and gifts according to their original design.